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How to Plan Your San Juan: Self-Guided Audio Tour of Historic Buildings

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How to Plan Your San Juan: Self-Guided Audio Tour of Historic Buildings

San Juan is a place steeped in history and culture. From the colorful buildings lining the streets to the old fortresses overlooking the ocean, there are so many stories to discover. If you’re planning a trip to San Juan, one of the best ways to explore the historic buildings is through a self-guided audio tour. With the “Talking Buildings” tour, created by the Saint John’s School 6th-grade Social Studies class, you’ll get an immersive experience of the city’s rich history. Here’s how to plan your self-guided audio tour of historic buildings in San Juan.

Experience

The “Talking Buildings” tour is a self-guided audio tour that takes you on a journey through time from the 16th century to modern-day San Juan. You’ll be guided by producer Gabriella Garces, who is also a Social Studies teacher. The tour is flexible enough for you to do it all in an hour, or you can linger at stops along the way. Plus, you’ll get unlimited use of the tour before and after your booking date, and you can even use the virtual tour option at home.

Highlights

The tour will take you to some of San Juan’s most iconic and historic buildings. You’ll learn about the architecture, the people who lived and worked there, and the events that shaped the city’s history. Some of the highlights of the tour include:
  • The San Juan Gate
  • La Fortaleza
  • Paseo de la Princesa
  • Cathedral of San Juan Bautista
  • Casa Blanca
You’ll get a first-person account of each of these buildings and the history behind them.

Journey

The tour takes you on a journey through the streets of Old San Juan. You’ll pass by colorful buildings, historic landmarks, and scenic views of the ocean. The tour is designed to be self-guided, so you can go at your own pace and stop whenever you want. The audio guide will provide you with directions and information about each stop along the way.

Full Description

The “Talking Buildings” tour is a self-guided audio tour of the historic buildings in Old San Juan. Created by the Saint John’s School 6th-grade Social Studies class, this tour will take you on a journey through time from the 16th century to modern-day San Juan. The tour is narrated by producer Gabriella Garces, who is also a Social Studies teacher. She provides a first-person account of each building, including its history, architecture, and significance to San Juan. Along the way, you’ll learn about the people who lived and worked in these buildings, the events that shaped the city’s history, and the culture that makes San Juan unique. The tour includes some of the most iconic buildings in San Juan, such as the San Juan Gate, La Fortaleza, Paseo de la Princesa, Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, and Casa Blanca. Each stop along the way provides a fascinating look at the city’s history, and you’ll discover something new with each building. If you’d like to donate to the San José Church as mentioned in the route please follow this link: iglesiasanjosepr.org You can book the tour using the GetYourGuide website: book the tour here. Simply download the VoiceMap app, which is available for both Android and iOS, and then download the “Talking Buildings” tour. You can enjoy the tour with full offline accessibility, so you don’t need to worry about using data or being in a wifi zone.

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A self-guided audio tour of San Juan’s historic buildings is an excellent way to explore the city’s rich history and culture. With the “Talking Buildings” tour, you’ll get a first-person account of each building, and you’ll learn about the people, events, and culture that shaped San Juan. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking to learn more about this beautiful city, this tour is a must-do. So why not book it today and discover the secrets of San Juan’s historic buildings?

Frequently Asked Questions about San Juan

San Juan is one of the most vibrant and charming cities in Puerto Rico. If you’re thinking about traveling to San Juan, you may have many questions about the city. In this frequently asked questions (FAQ) guide, we’ll answer some of the most common questions to help you plan your trip to San Juan.

1. What is the best time to visit San Juan?

San Juan is beautiful all year round, but the best time to visit the city is during the winter months from December to April when the weather is mild, and there is little to no rain. However, you will find larger crowds and prices can be higher during this period. If you don’t mind some rain, you can visit during the shoulder season from May to November for lower prices and fewer crowds.

2. What is the currency used in San Juan?

The currency used in San Juan is the United States Dollar (USD). It is not necessary to exchange money unless you prefer to have small denominations of cash.

3. How do I travel around San Juan?

San Juan has a well-developed transportation system that includes buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft. The most convenient and cost-effective way to get around is by using a ride-hailing service. You can also rent a car if you prefer, but be aware that parking can be a challenge in some areas.

4. What are the must-visit attractions in San Juan?

San Juan is a city full of history and charm, and there are many must-visit attractions. Some of the most popular include:
  • The historic Castillo San Felipe del Morro
  • The colorful district of Old San Juan
  • The beautiful beaches of Isla Verde
  • The lively neighborhood of Santurce
  • The Bioluminescent Bay of Fajardo

5. What are some traditional dishes to try in San Juan?

Food is a significant part of the culture in San Juan, and there are many tasty dishes to try. Some traditional dishes to try in San Juan include:
  • Mofongo – a mashed plantain dish
  • Lechón – slow-roasted pork
  • Arroz con Gandules – rice with pigeon peas
  • Empanadillas – fried turnovers
  • Alcapurrias – stuffed fritters

6. What is the official language in San Juan?

The official language in San Juan is Spanish, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

7. Is San Juan safe for tourists?

San Juan is generally safe for tourists, but like any big city, there is a risk of petty crime such as pickpocketing or theft. Visitors should take normal precautions, such as not carrying large sums of cash, keeping an eye on their belongings, and staying in well-lit areas at night.

8. What is the nightlife like in San Juan?

San Juan has a vibrant nightlife with many bars, clubs, and lounges. The districts of Condado and Santurce are known for their nightlife, and visitors can enjoy live music, dancing, and drinks until the early hours of the morning.

9. Can I swim in the beaches of San Juan?

Yes, you can swim in the beaches of San Juan. Some of the most popular beaches, such as Isla Verde and Condado, have lifeguards on duty and offer amenities such as showers, restrooms, and beach chair rentals.

10. What is the weather like in San Juan?

San Juan has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 80°F to 90°F throughout the year. The rainy season runs from May to November, but even during this time, you can expect plenty of sunshine between showers.

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San Juan is a beautiful and colorful city with so much to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or nightlife, San Juan has something for everyone. By reading this FAQ guide, we hope that you have a better understanding of the city and what to expect during your visit.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in San Juan: A Comprehensive Guide

San Juan is the capital city of Puerto Rico and a popular tourist destination due to its rich history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another adventure, there are plenty of things to see and do in San Juan. In this guide, we’ll give you a detailed and comprehensive itinerary for spending your time in San Juan.

Day 1: Explore the Old San Juan

Begin your trip by visiting the Old San Juan, the historical heart of the city. The Old San Juan is a colorful and charming neighborhood full of cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and iconic landmarks. Start your day by visiting the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, one of the most significant fortifications built by the Spanish in the Caribbean. After exploring the fort, stroll through the city’s narrow streets and take in the beautiful colonial architecture, with many houses painted in bright colors. Be sure to stop by the Paseo de la Princesa, a beautiful two-block-long promenade built along the San Juan Bay that leads to the historic entrance of the city. For lunch, head over to the Plaza de Armas and check out one of the many restaurants serving traditional Puerto Rican cuisine. After lunch, continue exploring the city’s historic sites, such as the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, one of the oldest churches in the Americas.

Day 2: Hit the Beaches

One of the main attractions of San Juan is its stunning beaches. On day two of your trip, head to the Condado Beach, one of the city’s most popular beaches. The Condado Beach is a crescent-shaped beach with clear blue water and white sand. There are plenty of amenities on the beach, such as restaurants, cafes, and bars. You can also rent beach chairs and umbrellas and enjoy the sun. After enjoying the beach, head to the nearby Ashford Avenue, a vibrant street full of shops, restaurants, and cafes. There are plenty of options for lunch or dinner, or you can simply stroll and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Day 3: Discover the Rainforest

On day three of your trip, take a break from the city and head to El Yunque National Rainforest, a stunning natural wonder located only 30 minutes away from San Juan. El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System and features unique flora and fauna. Hike one of the many trails in the park, each offering breathtaking views of waterfalls, mountains, and lush vegetation. There are also various guided tours available for visitors who want a more in-depth experience.

Day 4: Experience the Local Cuisine

No trip to San Juan is complete without sampling the local cuisine. On day four of your trip, embark on a food tour and explore the city’s culinary scene. There are plenty of options for guided food tours that take you through the city’s neighborhoods and introduce you to the local delicacies. Try the mofongo, a traditional Puerto Rican dish consisting of mashed plantains and served with vegetables or meat. Other must-try dishes include the roasted pork, tostones (fried plantains), and arroz con gandules (rice and pigeon peas).

Day 5: Visit the Bacardi Rum Factory

On the final day of your trip, take a tour of the Bacardi Rum Factory, one of the most popular tourist attractions in San Juan. The factory offers various guided tours that take visitors through the history of the Bacardi rum and the rum-making process. You can also enjoy rum tastings and purchase Bacardi products at the gift shop. After the tour, head to the nearby Santurce neighborhood, a trendy and hipster area full of bars, clubs, and restaurants. You can cap off your trip by enjoying delicious cocktails made with Bacardi rum.

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San Juan is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the Caribbean, full of history, culture, beaches, and great food. This itinerary provides an excellent overview of the city’s main attractions, and you can always add your own personal touch to make the trip even more memorable. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or an extended stay, San Juan is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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How to Plan Your San Juan: Self-Guided Audio Tour of Historic Buildings

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!